Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

PRAZOSIN - ORAL

(PRAY-zoh-sin)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Minipress

Uses

Prazosin relaxes and expands blood vessels. It is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

OTHER

Uses

This drug may also be used for congestive heart failure or Raynaud's disease. This drug can also be used in males for symptoms of prostate enlargement such as urinary hesitancy and/or urgency.

How To Use

Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time each day. Take the first dose at bedtime to minimize the chances of getting dizzy or fainting. Capsules may be taken with food or milk to avoid stomach upset. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Side Effects

Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, constipation, loss of appetite, fatigue, nasal congestion or dry eyes may occur the first several days as your body adjusts to the medication. Inform your doctor promptly if you develop: chest pain, difficulty breathing, difficulty urinating, skin rash, swelling of the hands or feet, ringing in the ears. Males - though it is unlikely to occur, if you get a painful, prolonged erection, stop using this drug and seek immediate medical attention. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history especially of: heart or kidney problems, any allergies. To avoid dizziness or fainting, get up slowly from a lying or seated position; especially when you first start using this drug or if your doctor changes your dosing. Limit your intake of alcohol and avoid getting overheated because they may increase the dizziness and drowsiness effects of this drug. Use caution performing tasks that require alertness such as driving or using machinery. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Prazosin is excreted into breast milk. Though to date, there have been no reports on harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all the medicines you use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: verapamil, beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol). Avoid drugs that increase your heart rate or make you excited like decongestants because it may counteract your blood pressure medicine. Decongestants are commonly found in over-the-counter cough-and-cold products. Ask your pharmacist if you are uncertain your cold/allergy medicine contains a decongestant. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness and weakness.

Notes

It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking this medication. Learn how to monitor your blood pressure. Discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

Medical Alert

Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).